Destination: Raiatea, French Polynesia
Introduction
Raiatea is the sacred island of ancient Polynesia — the birthplace of the Society Islands culture, the origin of the great Polynesian migrations across the Pacific, and the location of Taputapuatea marae, one of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world. Shared with Tahaa inside a common barrier reef, Raiatea and Tahaa together offer some of the finest lagoon sailing in French Polynesia, with calm enclosed waters and vanilla-scented breezes.
GPS Coordinates
16° 49' 59.880"S 151° 25' 59.880"W
16 49 59.880S 151 25 59.880W
Protected Anchorages
Uturoa on the northeast coast of Raiatea is the main town and most convenient anchorage, in 8–15 m off the marina. The inner lagoon between Raiatea and Tahaa offers numerous anchorages: Faaroa Bay on the eastern coast of Raiatea is particularly sheltered and leads to a navigable river. Tahaa has beautiful anchorages at Haamene Bay and the motu anchorages on the northern barrier reef. The lagoon throughout is calm, clear, and well-sheltered.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
No international customs at Raiatea — clear in Papeete first. The gendarmerie at Uturoa handles logbook stamps and permits. Raiatea is a Port of Entry within French Polynesia for domestic movements.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Marina Uturoa at Raiatea has good berths, fuel (diesel), water, and chandlery
- The Apoote Nautique near the marae has moorings
- Charter companies — The Moorings, Sunsail, and Dream Yacht Charter — all base fleets here, with associated services
Renowned Attractions
- Taputapuatea Marae — UNESCO World Heritage site, the most sacred marae in Polynesia and the spiritual birthplace of Pacific navigation
- Faaroa River — the only navigable river in French Polynesia; paddle upriver through dense jungle by dinghy
- Tahaa vanilla plantations — Tahaa produces some of the world's finest vanilla; guided tours available
- Motu barrier reef anchorages — idyllic sandbar motus on the outer reef with excellent snorkelling
- Shark and ray feeding in the Tahaa lagoon — regular organised encounters in the northern passes
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: CFP Franc
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Raiatea is the sacred heart of Polynesia and one of the finest sailing destinations in the Pacific — its UNESCO-listed marae, navigable river, shared lagoon with Tahaa, and proximity to Bora Bora make it a destination of both cultural depth and natural beauty.